China's Ancient Qiang City︱A Living Fossil of Qiang Culture

Overview of the Scenic Area

Located in Mao County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China's Ancient Qiang City is the only ancient city themed around Qiang culture in China, earning the title "Living Fossil of Qiang Culture." Centered around traditional Qiang watchtower architecture, the city recreates the lifestyle and beliefs of ancient Qiang people, making it an excellent destination to experience Qiang history, art, and intangible cultural heritage.

🚄 Transportation

Self-driving
Route: Depart from Chengdu, take Chengguan Expressway and transfer to Dujiangyan-Wenchuan Expressway, then drive along National Highway 213 for about 40 kilometers to Mao County. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
Navigation: Set destination to China's Ancient Qiang City Visitor Center.

Public Transportation
Bus: Take a direct bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Mao County (about 4 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to a local taxi or sightseeing shuttle (about 10 minutes).
Flight: The nearest airport is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. From there, transfer to a bus or drive to the destination.

🏔 Highlights of the Scenic Area

Qiang Watchtower Cluster
Unique stone-built watchtowers of the Qiang people, majestic in design, offering panoramic views of the ancient city. Recommended for photography during sunrise or sunset.
Must-see: The "Sky Tower" and "Earth Tower" at the sacrificial square, symbolizing the Qiang people's reverence for heaven and earth.

Qiang Culture Museum
Exhibits showcasing the thousand-year history of the Qiang people, including clothing, Qiang flute, Qiang embroidery, and other artifacts, providing an in-depth understanding of the "Cloud People."

Intangible Heritage Experiences
Qiang Song and Dance: Daily performances of "Shibi Sacrificial Ceremony" (Qiang shaman culture) and "Shalang Dance" (traditional circle dance).
Handicraft Workshops: Experience Qiang embroidery, Qiang flute making, or participate in tea crafting and wine brewing activities.

📕 Practical Tips

Clothing and Equipment
The scenic area has many stairs and slopes; comfortable sports shoes are recommended. High-altitude areas have strong UV rays, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Cultural Respect
Qiang people regard white stones as sacred objects; avoid touching sacrificial items casually. Always seek permission before taking photos of locals.

Recommended Seasons
Best Season: Autumn (September-October), with cool weather and no rainy season, ideal for photographing watchtowers and distant mountains.
Festive Activities: During the Qiang New Year (lunar October 1st), grand ceremonies and song-and-dance events are held.

🍔 Food Recommendations

Qiang Hot Pot: A rich-flavored dish made with cured meat, wild vegetables, and tofu.
Potato Cake: Mashed potatoes served with honey or spicy sauce.
Zha Wine: Traditional Qiang barley wine, sipped through bamboo straws, with a mellow taste.

Nearby Attractions

Diexi Lake: 30 kilometers away, a tranquil dammed lake formed by an earthquake.
Songping Valley: Known as "Little Jiuzhai," its autumn foliage is stunning, suitable for a day trip.
Heihu Qiang Village: Preserves the original Qiang village style, famous for its "Ten Thousand Household Qiang Village" watchtower cluster.

🏠 Accommodation Recommendations

Mao County Town: Affordable options like "Erma Hotel" or Qiang-style homestays.
Inside Ancient Qiang City: High-end choices like "Yunshang Qiang Inn," offering themed rooms in watchtower-style buildings.

❤ Summary: China's Ancient Qiang City is a vital window into Qiang culture, perfect for travelers interested in history and humanities. Combine visits to nearby natural attractions for a 2-3 day itinerary to fully experience the unique charm of Northwest Sichuan.